Ghanaian Journalists Face Growing Threats Amidst Mining Investigations

February 06, 2025 – Ghana – 

Ghanaian journalists are confronting escalating violence and intimidation, particularly when reporting on illegal mining activities, known locally as galamsey. Despite constitutional guarantees of press freedom, a pervasive culture of impunity persists, undermining journalistic safety and accountability.

In December 2024, journalist Ohemeng Tawiah and his camera operator, Joseph Kusi, were attacked by armed men, some in military camouflage, while covering a police operation against illegal mining in the Ashanti region. The assailants assaulted Tawiah with stones and machetes, stole equipment, and destroyed Kusi’s camera. Despite Tawiah providing police with evidence, including photos and phone numbers of the attackers, no arrests have been made.

This incident is part of a troubling pattern. In March 2025, five journalists were attacked by military personnel and suspected illegal miners in separate incidents. The military officers involved in these assaults have not faced accountability, and journalists have reported that compensation for damaged equipment has not been provided, despite court orders.

The Ghanaian government’s commitment to press freedom is increasingly questioned. While the Right to Information (RTI) law was enacted in 2019 to promote transparency, journalists still encounter significant challenges in accessing information. Public institutions often withhold data, and some journalists face intimidation when requesting information.

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has expressed concern over the rising threats to journalists, particularly those engaged in investigative reporting. The GJA’s president, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has emphasized the need for stronger measures to protect journalists and ensure their safety.

The persistent attacks on journalists, especially those covering sensitive topics like illegal mining, highlight a critical need for the Ghanaian government to uphold its constitutional obligations and international commitments to press freedom. Without decisive action, the safety of journalists and the integrity of investigative journalism in Ghana remain at significant risk.

Reference – 

Ghana’s journalists still attacked with impunity

No accountability after Ghanaian journalists attacked while covering illegal mining investigation